Harrisburg, Arkansas is located in the center of Poinsett County situated on the western slopes of beautiful Crowley's Ridge. While being surrounded by forests we also have some of the best farmland in the State. Our ideal location in Northeast Arkansas is close to major industrial cities like Jonesboro, AR which is just a few miles north and Memphis, TN an easy 1 hour drive east.

Humble BeginningIn 1857, the Poinsett County seat was moved south with the courthouse to be built on a piece of andland donated to the county for that purpose by Benjamin Harris, after whom Harrisburg was named. That same year a log courthouse was constructed and a post office was established.

Soon cotton gins and grist mills were built in town to accommodate the agriculture and timber industry. As jobs became available Harrisburg began to experience growth as workers, merchants, lawyers and doctors moved their businesses and homes to the new county seat. In 1882, with the arrival of the railroad, Harrisburg's economy began to diversify.

Current EventsToday Harrisburg continues to be a town made up of families, entrepreneurs and businesses that work together. We have excellent schools and churches and there are many clubs and civic organizations available for those who wish to be involved in our community. We have lots of activies available in and around Harrisburg for our hometown folks and visitors.

We have an excellent City Park with lighted tennis courts, covered pavilion, playground swimming pool, walking track and lighted baseball field. We also have a park off Hwy 1. The Dana Collins Park has a walking track, playground and skate area.

The Harrisburg Festival on the Ridge is Harrisburg's annual celebration on the Court Square. The Festival is in June and is enjoyed by all ages. There is live entertainment, kiddy rides, games, arts and crafts, soapbox derby, 5k Run and an evening street dance.

If history is your thing we have several historic landmarks to see like the Poinsett County Courthouse. This Courthouse is located on Court Square and still houses the county offices. It was built in 1918 and is regarded as one of the prettiest buildings in the state of Arkansas.

Another Historic site is Parker Pioneer Homestead. It is an authentic late 1800’s pioneer village just a few miles south of Harrisburg. The Homestead is open to the public during the Pioneer Festival held in October. It also is available to rent for family reunions and weddings.

For the outdoor type we have many activities. Poinsett State Park is located 3 miles south has paved campsites with water hookups & electric 30 & 50 amp hookups, dump station on site, a playground, a nature trail and a heated & cooled pavilion. Poinsett Lake has excellent fishing and boating with boats and kayaks available to rent at the Park. The Dam area has a covered pier and a boat ramp with parking.

You will also find fantastic duck and goose hunting along the Mississippi Flyway. With our many hunting guide services available you won't leave empty handed.

Vision
The combination of our location, infrastructure and workforce makes Harrisburg an ideal place for growth. We have the room and desire to expand. Why not visit us and see what Harrisburg has to offer?

Harrisburg Fast Facts

Harrisburg is the county seat for Poinsett County. The Courthouse is located downtown on Court Square.

Harrisburg's population is 2,320. (2010 census)

The sales tax rate is 8.25%

Harrisburg is included in the Jonesboro, AR Metropolitan Area.

The City of Harrisburg has a total area of 2.1 square miles.

Harrisburg is located in the Central Standard Time (CST) timezone

Harrisburg’s “Festival on the Ridge” is on the 1st Saturday each June on Court Square.

Harrisburg hosts the Poinsett County Fair each year in August at the fairgrounds.

The Modern News is our local newspaper. It has been in business since 1880.

The City of Harrisburg is governed by the Mayor and 8 City Council Members.

Local Parks

Lawrence Reddmann Municipal Park – Playground, swimming pool, pavilions, walking track, baseball field. Located at the north end of East St.

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City Youth ProgramHarrisburg’s City Youth program provides area youth with an organized baseball/softball league in the spring and a soccer league in the fall. 870-974-1980

Utility and Garbage ServiceCity sewer, water, gas and garbage services are handled by the Harrisburg City Water & Gas Department. Questions regarding services or billing should be directed to 578-5461. Garbage will be picked up weekly. Twice each year (Spring/Fall) the City has a special “Clean Sweep” day for house and yard cleanup. The dates will be announced in the local newspaper.

RecyclingThere are container baskets around town for cardboard recycling. The recycling center is located at 709 East Street. They will also accept white paper and newspaper at the recycling center.

Dogs/CatsAll dogs and cats must have proof of rabies vaccination. Dogs must be kept in an adequate fence or enclosure. A chain may not be used as a permanent means of restraint. Pit bull and other vicious dog owners must provide proof liability insurance. (See Ordinance 2007-003)

Curfew for MinorsA curfew has been established for persons 15 years of age and younger. It restricts certain minors from public streets, parks, etc. during the hours from 11:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. on Friday and Saturday nights and from 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. on weeknights. (See Ordinance 2001-005)

Volunteer Fire DepartmentThe City of Harrisburg has a volunteer fire department. The fire station is located behind the Municipal Building at 602 Center Street. To contact the VFD you can call 578-4120.

Property TaxesQuestions concerning property taxes should be directed to the Poinsett County Assessor’s office at 578-4430. You may pay your property taxes at the Poinsett Collector’s Office in the Courthouse at 401 Market Street, 578-4415.

City Council MeetingsCity Council meetings are held the 2nd Tuesday of the month at 7:00 p.m. at the Municipal Building at 202 N. East Street. City Council meetings are open to the public.

Permits and LicensesBuilding permits can be obtained at the Water and Gas office, 201 N. Main Street, 578-5461. Business Privilege Licenses can be obtained at City Hall, 200 E. Jackson Street, 578-5466.

Lawn MaintenanceResidents are required to keep their property clean to avoid unsightly and unsanitary conditions. Tall grass/weeds must be cut. Garbage/rubbish must be removed. Failure to keep your property clean will result in fines. (Municipal Code, Chapter 5.4)